Healthcare News & Stories

For United States citizens, having access to quality healthcare coverage is absolutely crucial. Without it, you may be liable for massive medical bills when an unforeseen health concern arises. Many people experience difficulties finding an affordable and comprehensive plan that suits all their needs. Open enrollment scheduling and confusing health insurance jargon can make the process seem more challenging than it needs to be. 
This article will focus on offering the reader tips and insights about open enrollment for health insurance in 2024.
What Is the Annual Open Enrollment Period?

Up until age 26, you can remain on your parent's health insurance plan. But turning 26 means it's finally time to sort out your own health insurance coverage. It’s important to make sure that you find a plan that meets your health needs, and that's within your budget. In this article, we'll help you find a plan that meets your lifestyle and give you plenty of information so you can make an informed choice.  At Health Plans of NC, we specialize in helping anyone from North Carolina find the right health insurance coverage. If you’re about to turn 26, here are our top recommendations for finding the right health insurance for you. 

No matter what stage of life you’re at, having the right level of health insurance can be crucial. The right coverage gives you (and your loved ones) financial protection and peace of mind that you can access quality healthcare services - when you need them most.  Whether you live in North Carolina or any state in the U.S., you can purchase the right level of health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Usually, you’re only eligible to purchase during what’s known as the annual Open Enrollment Period. But, for certain life events and special circumstances, known as Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs), you can enroll or change your health insurance plans outside of the regular enrollment period. 

With the rate of obesity continuing to rise throughout the U.S., so too are the introduction of new and promising weight loss drugs, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.  While these weight loss drugs can be expensive, some employers are considering adding them to their employer-sponsored health plans. To support employees and help boost productivity, which can produce significant savings over the long term.

Despite being an essential component of everyday well-being, most are not aware of the intricacies of health insurance. Typically, for elderly individuals, there are Medicare plans, which are policyholder only. Alternatively, there are employer-sponsored group health plans and Marketplace insurance plans that provide coverage for dependents. 
While you can claim dependents on your health insurance plan, many individuals are not properly informed of various eligibility requirements.  
This spurs the question, “Can you put non-family members on your insurance plan?” In this article, we will answer that question and provide additional information about who can be added to health insurance plans and its effects.

Insurance involves monthly premiums, deductibles, categories, out-of-pocket expenses, out-of-network costs, and premium tax credits. And for a lot of people, these terms can bring up stress and confusion.
Those searching for the best individual or family plan often come across these daunting terms. It can be hard to fully understand what any of it means and how it impacts your bottom line. Plus, you may not know how to effectively compare plans.
In this article, we’ll be diving into areas that you should be considering when looking at healthcare plans and why they matter. You’ll also learn about the best family health insurance plans and how to choose the right one for you.

What is a Complex Case?
A complex case refers to specific healthcare needs for you or your family based on your circumstances. 
Here are some examples where seeking advice from a health insurance agent can be beneficial:

What is a Complex Case?
A complex case refers to specific healthcare needs for you or your family based on your circumstances. 
Here are some examples where seeking advice from a health insurance agent can be beneficial:

At Health Plans of NC, our experienced and professional team of locally based health insurance agents are here to help you. We've recently launched a new website to make it even easier for anyone living in North Carolina to access the best health insurance plan.  You can request a quote online in seconds simply by providing your zip code. It's a great way to get a quote fast, and we'll assign you to one of our knowledgeable North Carolina agents here to help you find the right plan for your health needs and budget. But if you want more control over your chosen agent, we recommend you look at our new 'Find an Agent' feature. This tool gives you the power to choose which insurance broker you use. 

AARP is a non-profit organization that aims to assist and advocate for individuals over 50 on issues relating to health security and financial stability. For qualifying individuals, it is helpful to stay informed on the different coverage plans available. By doing so, they can find a plan that is affordable and provides proper benefits.
What Are The Available Medical Plans For Members?
There are different insurance plans AARP members can enroll in. Each plan may have varying eligibility requirements.

Financial Considerations When Getting Self-Employed Health Insurance
If you are or are considering becoming self-employed, it is important to understand the ramification it may have on your health insurance. You may no longer receive coverage under your employer’s insurance plan. Therefore, it is essential to consider your financial situation and choose a health insurance plan that is affordable.
What Are Available Options for Self-Employed Health Insurance?

The Open Enrollment Period for 2023 plans has ended. However, certain individuals may qualify for the Special Enrollment Period.
To be eligible, you must have experienced a significant life change. Typically, you will need to apply 60 days before or after the event.
In addition, if you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), you may apply at any time.

A health insurance agent can help you acquire health plans that meet your needs. A good agent is licensed and knowledgeable about health coverage in your area. Unfortunately, some agents are more knowledgeable and personable than others. When people choose an insurance professional that doesn’t meet their needs, they often wonder, “Can I change my health insurance agent?”
Changing your agent is simple, but timing is crucial. This article is meant to guide you through the process and answer your questions. There are currently 881,500 licensed agencies and brokers working in the US. In addition, as of 2021, totals show 911,400 life and health insurance agents and 628,600 property/casualty insurance agents. Viable options are available for those seeking a new agent.
Can I change my health insurance company before renewal? Can I switch health insurance with no waiting period? And, should I buy health insurance through an agent or online? Can I change my health insurance agent without being penalized? Let’s address these questions and more in this article.

Having quality health coverage is essential. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find an affordable health plan that gives you all the coverage you need. With so many plans available, finding the right one takes time, diligence, and dedication. While it’s possible to find good health insurance by yourself, many people ask themselves, “Can I use an agent to find health insurance?” 
A licensed health insurance agent works directly with insurance companies to find the ideal health insurance plan. They are committed to selecting a health plan that fits your financial availability, offering assistance towards qualifying for a premium tax credit if needed.
Get a quote and find your most affordable North Carolina health insurance plan today.

It can be time-consuming and stressful to find health insurance plans that meet all your needs. Finding an insurance company that offers plans that fit your budget can also be difficult. Health insurance agents can assist you in this process. But what does a health insurance agent do?
Health insurance agents are licensed professionals who know the similarities and differences between different insurance plans. They are well-versed in specific health insurance plans and often work directly for insurance companies. Using an insurance professional can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
This article is meant to educate potential clients about what agents do and how they can help you find the perfect health plan. Visit our website to get a quote and learn more about our agents.

Finding affordable health insurance that fits your needs can be difficult. With so many options available, finding the right health plan is a daunting task. Most people struggle to discover the perfect plan by themselves, not realizing there are health insurance agents who can help. So, how do I find a health insurance agent?
At Health Plans of NC, we are ready to help you find the health plan that suits your needs. When it comes to health insurance plans, it can be difficult to understand the fine print. A qualified health insurance agent can walk you through the process so you don’t have to do it all on your own.
Finding the right health insurance plan starts with finding the right health insurance agent. This article focuses on what licensed agents do and where to find the right one for you.

Living without health insurance can leave you financially vulnerable to sudden illness or injury. Many individuals with health insurance coverage may feel that their plans don’t fulfill all of their needs.
If this is the case, there are several different options available, and Non-Medicare is one of the most widely used. But what is Non-Medicare insurance? And do you benefit from choosing it?
This article will offer a comprehensive understanding of what Non Medicare insurance is and how it differs from other types of insurance plans.

Finding the right health insurance plan is no easy task. With so many options available, many people feel overwhelmed and settle for a health plan that doesn’t fully meet their needs. Working with a licensed insurance agent can make the process less stressful and give you better results. You may be wondering what questions to ask a health insurance agent.  
Before selecting a health insurance policy, talk to your agent about what questions to ask health insurance companies. Take the time to learn from your agent and get educated on all the health insurance plans available. Insurance agents are a valuable resource because they work directly for the health insurance company.
This article is meant to offer questions to ask when getting health insurance. We’ll cover topics such as insurance types, costs, and claims. Asking the right questions can give you a fuller picture of all your options so you can make the best decision possible.

When it comes to overall health and well-being, an individual health insurance plan may be the right option for you. While it may seem expensive with potential out-of-pocket costs, it is worth having. With a proper health insurance plan, you can rest assured, as you will be covered for a variety of services and procedures. But what is individual health insurance, and what does it cover?
With the help of a knowledgeable insurance agent, you can find a plan that is both affordable and provides extensive coverage.
The Importance of Receiving Health Insurance in North Carolina

There are several options you must consider when choosing a health insurance plan. Many people receive coverage through their workplace. On the other hand, for the elderly or retired, Medicare (a public health program created by the federal government) might be the most suitable. However, there are also individual plans available from health insurance companies. But, how much is individual health insurance, and what does it cover?
Recently, this option has gained traction as it provides greater customization opportunities and flexibility within different plans. In the following, we will explain what individual health insurance is, how much it costs, and why it might be the right choice for you.
Why Consider Getting Individual Health Insurance

Having a family is a big responsibility. The health and security of your loved ones should be your top priority. It’s necessary to ensure that you and your family receive the best coverage at an affordable price. But, how much is health insurance for different family sizes? What are the things you need to know?
We understand the difficulties of finding the right health insurance. Considering all the costs and different coverage options can be quite stressful. Choosing the appropriate coverage is an important decision. 
Health Plans of NC offers a wide range of health plans so you and your loved ones can find the coverage you deserve. We encourage you to learn more about the average cost of family health plans and how you can afford the best health plan available. Our experienced team of agents can give you the knowledge you need to feel confident in the insurance company, and coverage, you choose.

Dental health can impact your overall health. Over 100 diseases can appear in your mouth, making regular check-ups essential. Your family dentist can not only help you maintain good oral health but also help prevent serious health complications. Organizing the right level of dental insurance can allow you to access the ongoing dental care you need for you and your family to stay healthy.

As a parent, the right health insurance can provide peace of mind if your child becomes ill, experiences an injury, or requires urgent medical attention. Our agents at Health Plans of NC regularly help families find the right health insurance for their entire family, including recommendations for child-only health insurance.

Expat health insurance, also known as expatriate medical insurance, offers health insurance coverage for anyone temporarily living outside of their home country. You can usually tailor your policy to suit your health needs, regardless of where you live. These plans can be an excellent option to provide private health insurance, which can be helpful if it's difficult to source quality healthcare where you live.